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The Lions landed in New Zealand today and will be playing 10 games during the tour, starting against a Provinvial Union XV on Saturday.

“I've built a good relationship with big VC (Cotter) over time with Scotland and I've certainly got a lot of respect for him, but whenever I'm given an opportunity it's up to me to show what I'm all about and bring my strengths to the table,” said Laidlaw at a press conference following the squad’s arrival at Auckland airport.

Vern Cotter with Greig Laidlaw

"So if and when I'm given an opportunity that's what I'll be aiming to do and give my best towards a team performance.

"It was good for me to be in the camp from the start and I really tried to add value to the group where I can.

"That's something, going back to Vern, you learn from him you only come to the table with something where you think you can add value.

"Otherwise you just get on with your work, play rugby and be the best player you can be. So that's very much what I'll be doing.”

Scotland captain Laidlaw also defended Lions head coach Warren Gatland after England boss Eddie Jones told The Telegraph's Full Contact podcast he felt the Lions would be "looking to attack like Wales" and would "struggle to beat the All Blacks like that."

Warren Gatland

"What happens with national sides is not so relevant here now," said Laidlaw.

"Warren won the last Test series (against Australia in 2013) with the Lions, that's a record that stands up, and that's what he's measured on. That's credit to him.

"And Eddie can say what he likes, because he's not sat in the hot seat is he? He's got other things to worry about."

Laidlaw thinks that the knowledge and experience of Kiwi Gatland will be key to the Lions’ chances.

"He'll take a step back and stand and watch, but if he sees something he doesn't like he certainly won't let it slip,” said Laidlaw.

"He's a very detailed coach. He knows a fair bit about this part of the world which is key for us coming down here.

"He'll use his knowledge and experience to help the team, so if we've any questions we can ask him. He's made a strong impression on the group already.”